Taiwan Life CEO Chuang Chung-ching: Launching First Dementia Insurance in Q4 with Proprietary Genetic Testing

As Taiwan enters a super-aged society, the proportion of people diagnosed with dementia continues to rise. Taiwan Life Insurance CEO Chuang Chung-ching announced today (7) during a media briefing that the company plans to launch its first-ever dementia insurance policy in the fourth quarter of this year. A pioneering feature of this initiative is a front-end genetic test for dementia risk, which is unique in the industry and will be offered free of charge to all members of the public.

The third High-Age Health Industry Expo kicked off today and runs for three consecutive days at Taipei World Trade Center Hall 1. Speaking at the event, Chuang revealed that Taiwan Life has partnered with Genesis Biotech to introduce the industry’s first dual-gene (APOE and TOMM40) testing service. Members of the public can conduct the dementia-related genetic test from home by collecting an oral mucosal sample, enabling early assessment of Alzheimer’s disease risk.

Chuang explained that the genetic test can reveal whether an individual has a higher likelihood of developing dementia after age 65. "It's very simple—just use saliva; it's non-invasive. We (Taiwan Life) won't know your test results. You retrieve the results yourself, so you can make early arrangements accordingly," he said.

He emphasized that dementia imposes significant burdens on families. Taiwan Life has produced educational videos and is preparing to launch its first dementia insurance since the company's founding. While dementia differs from physical disability—mainly requiring assistance in daily activities—the payout structure and benefits will differ slightly from long-term care or disability insurance. However, the core design concept remains the same: "Essentially, this policy still follows the principle of long-term care cost compensation, helping insured individuals cover expenses related to daily living support."

Additionally, Taiwan Life’s dementia insurance will include training programs for family caregivers. "We want families with dementia patients to learn how to properly care for them. We are collaborating with several organizations and encouraging our agents to obtain family caregiver certifications, so policyholders not only purchase insurance but also gain knowledge on caring for loved ones with dementia."

Chuang also noted that Taiwan Life is working with the Ministry of Health and Welfare to gradually expand the scope of coverage and claims under the dementia insurance, addressing diverse needs such as medical accompaniment, meal services, and in-home caregiving for dementia-affected families.

When asked whether premiums for the dementia insurance would be expensive, Chuang responded, "Of course, the later you buy, the more expensive it gets. Purchasing at a younger age won’t be costly."